The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that the Makati Regional Trial Court Branch 235 issued an arrest warrant against Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste over an alleged violation of the Public Service Act.
According to the report of RH Tina Nolasco, the warrant, dated October 5, 2026, was issued in connection with charges under Section 25 of Commonwealth Act No. 146, as amended by Republic Act No. 11659. The court set Leviste’s bail at P72,000.
According to DOJ spokesperson Atty. Polo Martinez, the information was formally filed before the court on September 29 against Leviste and Solar Para sa Bayan Corporation (SPBC) officials Hazel Iris La Puente Buencamino and Irma Flaminiano.
The case stemmed from the Department of Energy’s (DOE) complaint alleging that SPBC failed to fulfill obligations under its 25-year legislative franchise, including providing electricity to remote, unserved, and underserved areas.
Martinez said the case proceeded after prosecutors found prima facie evidence and reasonable certainty of conviction.
The DOE had earlier alleged that the company failed to secure required permits and submit compliance reports related to its franchise obligations.
The DOJ also clarified that matters concerning the issuance and implementation of the warrant are now under the jurisdiction of the court.
